By Kelley Electrical Contracting, LLC. Published October 16, 2026. Educational information, not a substitute for an on-site inspection.
Stay safe first
Do not touch someone who is still in contact with a live source. Turn off power at the breaker or unplug the device if you can do so safely. If you cannot, use a dry non-conductive object like a wooden broom handle to separate them, and call 911.
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Call 911 if
The person is unconscious, has trouble breathing, chest pain, an irregular heartbeat, burns, muscle pain, seizures or confusion, or if the shock was from high voltage or a downed power line. Stay far away from downed lines.
Call (559) 940-1939Questions? Talk to a licensed electrician.
After a mild shock
A brief tingle from an appliance or outlet is still a sign something is wrong. Stop using the item, shut off the circuit if needed and have a licensed electrician find the fault. Seek medical advice if you feel unwell afterward, because internal injuries and heart rhythm problems can appear later.
Call (559) 940-1939Questions? Talk to a licensed electrician.
Prevent it
Use GFCI protection near water, replace damaged cords and keep your hands dry when handling electrical items.
Call (559) 940-1939Questions? Talk to a licensed electrician.
Frequently asked questions
Why see a doctor after a small shock?
Electric current can affect the heart and tissues in ways that are not obvious right away.
What if the shock came from an appliance?
Unplug it and do not use it until it is repaired or replaced.
What if a power line is down?
Stay at least several car lengths away and call 911 and the utility. Assume it is live.
Call (559) 940-1939Questions? Talk to a licensed electrician.
Sources and further reading
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